Is surgery the only option to remove a breast implant that was inserted in 2009 during a breast lift procedure?

Q:

I had implants and a breast lift in 2009. Six months later an abscess developed and I had to have one implant removed. I was left with one implant that remained in and none on the other side. I'm now 26 years old and have a size C left breast and size DD right breast. I'm tired of stuffing my bra and want the implant removed. What are my options? I can't afford a surgery bill of $3,000 right now, but being two different sizes is taking a toll on me. Please advise!

A:

A simple option if you have a saline implant is to percutaneously deflate the implant and allow the skin to retract with time. Later the old implant can often be removed under a local anesthetic with or without slight sedation. If the implant is silicone it most likely will have to be removed surgically. Consider a consult with a member of the ASAPS in your area to discuss your options.